EOI: Where to Study Spanish for Free (or Almost) in Spain

The Espanha has a public network of language schools that most Brazilians have never heard of: the Escuelas Oficiales de Idiomas (EOI). These are government institutions that teach languages with quality comparable to private academies, but at a fraction of the cost — and in some Autonomous Communities, certain modalities are free or almost.

What is EOI?

The Escuela Oficial de Idiomas is a public language school managed by the Autonomous Communities. There are EOIs in practically all provincial capitals and many smaller cities. The offerings include dozens of languages: English, French, German, Italian, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, Portuguese, Japanese, and of course — Spanish for foreigners (ELE).

For Brazilians, the most relevant option is usually Spanish as a foreign language (for those who want formal certification or to improve their language skills in a structured way) or English/another language to enhance their CV.

How much does it cost?

Prices vary by Autonomous Community since each region manages its own EOIs. As a reference:

• Madrid (2025-2026 course): 120-hour courses cost approximately €222; 135-hour courses, approximately €250 per year
• Valencian Community: similar prices, paid in installments; there are exemptions for the unemployed and recipients of minimum income
• Andalucia, Catalonia, and other regions: similar values — check your region's EOI for exact pricing

In all regions, the cost is much lower than private academies, which typically charge €80 to €150 per month for the same level of instruction.

Available Modalities

Depending on the EOI and region, you can find:

• On-site regime: regular classes throughout the academic year (October to June)
• Intensive courses: more concentrated format, usually in January or summer
• Distance learning modality (EOI online): some regions offer online classes at the same price; ideal for those who work
• Short-term courses: conversation, exam preparation (DELE, Cambridge, etc.)

Available Levels

The EOIs follow the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), teaching from A1 to C1 (some reach C2). The evaluation is by level test upon entry — you do not need to start from zero if you already have prior knowledge.

For Brazilians who arrive in Spain with passive understanding of Spanish, it's possible to enter directly at the B1 or B2 level through a classification test.

How to Enroll

The process varies by region but generally follows this structure:

1. Pre-enrollment: usually in June-July (for the October academic year) or in January (for intensive courses). Pre-enrollment is free and done online via your Autonomous Community's EOI portal
2. Classification: if you already have language knowledge, take a level test
3. Registration: after selection (in schools with more applicants than vacancies, there may be a lottery), pay the fee and formalize registration

Portals by region:

• Madrid: comunidad.madrid/educacion/ensenanzas-idiomas
• Valencian Community: eoi.gva.es
• Catalonia: tramits.gencat.cat (preinscripció EOI)
• Other regions: search "EOI [name of your Autonomous Community]" on your Autonomous Community's portal

Who is eligible for fee exemption or reduction?

In many regions, there are total or partial exemptions for:

• Unemployed registered with SEPE
• Beneficiaries of IMV (Minimum Vital Income) or regional minimum income
• Large families
• People with disabilities above a certain degree

Check the website of your Autonomous Community's EOI for exact conditions — they change every year.

Complementary Free Alternatives

In addition to EOIs, there are other ways to study Spanish (or other languages) without spending:

• Public libraries: many offer language exchange (tandem) and conversation clubs
• Online tandem groups: apps like Tandem, HelloTalk or specific Facebook groups for "language exchange" in your city
• Virtual Cervantes: the Instituto Cervantes has free Spanish resources at cervantes.es
• Language groups on Meetup: in larger cities, there are regular free language practice meetings

Is it worth enrolling in EOI?

If you want:

• An official certification of your Spanish level recognized in the European job market
• Structured classes with progression from A1 to C1
• Access to qualified public teachers at a reasonable price

Then EOI is the best option. The main drawback is demand — in large cities, enrollment can be competitive, and you may not get a spot at a certain level. The solution is to enroll as soon as pre-enrollment opens.

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Already in Spain and need to organize your documentation? Check our guide on registration and the one on NIE and TIE.